Chamber Mission Statement

The Slocan District Chamber of Commerce strives for a vibrant, diverse and healthy economy that respects the environment and community values of the Slocan Lake district.

Bylaws

Available for download in PDF format here.

History

The Slocan District Chamber of Commerce started out 100 years ago as the Slocan District Board of Trade. Check out the original 1911 incorporation papers on our and see the signatures of the 33 founding members, among them the legendary Johnny Harris and William Hunter.

The organization, which became a Chamber of Commerce in the early 1960s, had periods of inactivity due to wartime, mining boom-and-bust cycles, and flagging volunteer energy.

In the early 2000s, the current Chamber was revived, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Along with ardent community opposition, the Chamber played a crucial role in rescuing New Denver’s hospital from closure.

What we do

The Chamber plays a key role in advocacy, tourism, and economic development in the community.

We operate the in New Denver, and produce tourist publications for the Slocan Valley. The Slocan Valley Brochure was released in 2015, a variety of amenity maps direct visitors through and between our local communities, the popular Slocan Valley Area Map is still available in limited edition print, and a range of publications are offered through our West Koot Route collaboration.

To give local shopping a boost during Christmas time, the Chamber sponsors Merchants’ Night in New Denver. Typically the second Thursday of December this popular community events brings patrons out to enjoy a festive night on the town.

Other community service activities include hosting the New Denver May Days pancake breakfast and the Big Air Band Competition, and co-sponsoring All Candidates Forums with the Valley Voice newspaper during election times.

The SDCC has partnered with the Nakusp and District Chamber of Commerce and the Kaslo and Area Chamber of Commerce to aid in the creation of a  regional brand called the West Koot Route, with promotions rolling out regularly. Visit .

We are part of the Slocan Valley Economic Development Commission (SVEDC) which has partnered with the Rural Development Institute for the Business Retention and Expansion Project. In 2015-17 The SDCC collaborated with the SVEDC to offer regular Lunch and Learn sessions throughout the Valley.

Board of Directors

Jan McMurray, President

Janice Gustafson, Vice President

Colin Moss, Secretary/Treasurer

Clarence denBok, Director

Leanne Robson, Director

Tamara Barkowsky, Director

Daphne Budding, Director

Tom Bishop, Director

Village Liaisons

Kerry Gordon, Village of Silverton Liaison

Jessica Lunn, Village of Slocan Liaison

Staff

Jessica Rayner, Manager

Erika Beringer, Visitor Centre Manager